Category: BUSINESS
Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI) appoints Mr. Ashwani Jotshi as Secretary General

The Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI), the General Body of the Indian Forging Industry in India has announced the appointment of Mr. Ashwani Jotshi as its new Secretary General.
With an illustrious career spanning over three decades at the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), Mr. Jotshi brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership to AIFI.
As the new Secretary General of AIFI, Mr. Jotshi plans to focus on several immediate initiatives aimed at enhancing the association’s impact and reach.
He intends to broaden AIFI’s membership base to include a wider range of stakeholders, increase the number of educational and knowledge-sharing sessions, and form strategic partnerships to benefit the association and its members.
Additionally, Mr. Jotshi will also initiate forums for young business leaders and digital innovators and conduct comprehensive industry surveys to gather insights and drive development. His appointment marks a significant step forward for AIFI as it continues to advocate for the forging industry and address its critical challenges.
Neel Chooksi’ Mumbai’s most popular astrologer, enters the mental health sector, with her new start-up

Neel chooksi Mumbai’s most popular astrologer, Now entering the mental health sector, with her new start-up She says astrology is science and needs to understand logically

Neel chooksi says she has been in this field for almost 25 years she has consulted thousands of clients with different problems… but since the last five years, she found that in our country
Mental health is completely ignored…And day by day, mental health problems Increasing.

To get married is being tough day by day, so lonlyness is a big challenge
Jobs,loans,debt, loneliness, money crisis, Career, there are so many tough challenges we fight with. In this tough time, no one is helping or supporting each other.
This the big issue in now a days time because in arban area no body cares even for family members they only run behind money in rural area still people helps each other.

Today Mental health is more important than anything.
Suppose a girl is going to the salon, she will tell everyone that she is going to the salon with a smile … She will tell her friends for 2 days that she went to the salon and got expensive treatment.
Going to the salon is normal ,if there is any physical problem.
The person immediately goes to the doctor and gets himself treated….

But if you use a mental health doctor, if you have any mental illness, then it will be shameful
Stress is still ok. People discuss openly , but depression or any serious mental health problem is treated like a crime in our country.
We seem to keep this person in the house and stop him from coming in front of others…that’s why the members of the house do not try to treat him …and the problem takes a very serious form..

Why did this happen
Just because of people’s attitudes… people stare look at the sick person with strange eyes… in such a way the family members do not have the courage to take the mentally ill person to the doctor and Get treated him because the value of mental health is very low in our country…because people do not think that people with physical strength can reach higher heights of life through mental strength,…but a person suffering from mental weakness or disease, despite being physically strong. The last step can be taken like ending life…

Being an astrologer, many people come to me… who have some mental health related illnesses, and we see that their family’s attitude towards them is very disappointing… they feel ashamed of this person. ..and they want this person to go somewhere… or to die… this is a very bitter truth.
To know that when her son will come back,.? when I told them to do some remedy …at that time the grandmother was crying because she loved her son very much. But the boys mother came alone to me.

She further asked me to do something that he never came back… she was very troubled by her sons illness and felt ashamed of her son in the society… Because of his illness, in addition, she told me that
In some cases parents wants to get rid of their mentally ill child or they just don’t make any effort….In one case, a 22 year old MBBS son who had bipolar disorder left house.After 3 days his mother come to me with her mother in law.Her little son’s life is getting worse because elder sons’ mental illness
So this is the condition of our country. Our thoughts on mental health.

After practising astrology for 25 years.. when we saw such a problem, we felt that people of our country need to wake up… so we thought of such a startup.. where mental health is given priority.. in this application in which psychologists, mental healers, and councillors can join us, who will bring awareness among the people about mental health and will also help the people. Will treat them also…
So many women have come to us who have passed the age of 42, have children, are busy in their lives, and are busy in business.
Female is absolutely free, and she is in that stage of age where she is on the changing of hormonal disorder and menopause… She is in an emotional state and doesn’t know what to do?

Here, we will do better by combining astrology and psychology… My educational background is also psychology, so I will find happiness in doing this, and I will be able to do it in a very simple way.
After seeing all the major issues, we decided to focus on mental health and do something that is different, so we start our start-up. The name of our start-up is *TALKING ANGEL*
In this app, we will help people suffering from stress, anxiety, overthinking, depression, and other mental illnesses, console them, and cure them by ONBOARDING councillors, psychotherapist, spiritual healers.

Once in a 3 months, there may be seminars at natural places to reduce stress, tree plantation cleaning activities , which really helps improve mental healthWe need your support in this work.Soon, our start-up will launch with big bugal.
Courtesy : In Conversation with Ms.Neel chooksi – Astrologer, Spiritual Healer, Palmist, Gemologist, Graphology, Numerologist & Vastu Consultant in Mumbai. www.neelchooksiastro.com
Vaarsa – Chav Pidhyan Pidhyanchi, The Taste of Generations, the Legacy of Love

If you’re looking for the perfect family dining spot for seafood in Lalbaug, this place is a must-visit ! From fresh, flavorful curries to perfectly fried fish, every bite is a delight.

The authentic coastal flavors and cozy ambiance make it ideal for a wholesome family meal. Highly recommended for seafood lovers!
Vaarsa Chav Pidhyan Pidhyanchi, located in Lower Parel East near Chinchpokli and Chintamani Ganpati. The restaurant has a very aesthetic and cozy ambiance, offering authentic Maharashtrian food.

They have both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The dining area is comfortable, with both upper and lower seating. It tends to get crowded on weekends, so it’s a great place to visit with family.
We tried their Pomfret Green Tandoori, which tasted great and was beautifully presented. We also had Chicken Tandoori Lollipop, which both my friend and I really enjoyed.

For the main course, the owner suggested dishes, and we were blown away by the flavors. The Butter Chicken with Naan was fantastic, and we ended with their special Vaarsa Mutton Thali, which had everything on one plate and tasted amazing.
We also tried refreshing drinks like Sol Kadhi and Kokum Sharbat, which were unique and tasty. Everything from start to finish was perfect, including the Gulab Jamun dessert, which was deliciously sweet.

Overall, our experience was 10/10. The service was excellent, and the staff was very polite. If you’re in Lower Parel East, this is a must-visit restaurant for a family meal with authentic Maharashtrian food.
Every great journey begins with a story. Ours began in the bustling heart of Mumbai in 1966, when my grandmother, Mrs. Shalini Laxman Naikude, stood by the roadside outside Dadar station with little more than a stove, a few ingredients, and an indomitable spirit.

With dedication in her heart and a vision in her soul, she began selling Vada Pav — a humble snack that would soon become an iconic symbol of Maharashtra’s street food culture.
But for her, it was never just about the food. It was about survival, service, and sowing the seeds of something far greater than she could have imagined.

Vaarsa — meaning inheritance or legacy — is born from that very seed. It is our heartfelt tribute to the courage and culinary genius of my grandmother and the generations that followed her.
This restaurant is not just a business; it is a living narrative of grit, resilience, and love passed down through time. It’s a place where every bite tells a story and every aroma evokes a memory.

Our family has always believed that food is more than just sustenance — it is a celebration of life, of culture, and of togetherness.
Whether hosting guests at home or welcoming customers to Vaarsa, we have always approached food with reverence. Cooking is not a duty for us; it is a passion deeply rooted in tradition, prepared with the same care and authenticity as it was in our grandmother’s kitchen.

At Vaarsa, we honor this legacy by preparing every dish with our own handmade masalas, following recipes that have been safeguarded across decades.
These flavors are not modern reinventions; they are the true, unaltered tastes of our childhood — earthy, bold, and soulful. They carry within them the whispers of the past and the blessings of those who came before us.

The dream of opening a restaurant did not start with me. It was my father, Mr. Sunil Naikude, who once envisioned a place where our family’s legacy could thrive and inspire.
Watching him dream, strive, and sacrifice for our future instilled in me a sense of purpose — a desire to build something that would not only preserve our heritage but also empower others to do the same.

Vaarsa is the first step in that journey. It is the foundation of a greater vision — to build a chain of restaurants that celebrate the richness of Maharashtrian cuisine and culture, while also creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs and youth to take pride in their identity.
Maharashtra is a land of brave hearts and rich traditions, and I believe it’s time for those stories to be told through the universal language of food.

In every corner of Vaarsa, you’ll find the spirit of Maharashtra — from the decor that pays homage to our history, to the carefully curated menu that reflects the diverse culinary heritage of our region.
Our goal is to create an experience that not only satisfies the palate but touches the soul.

We hope that every person who walks through our doors, whether from Mumbai or from halfway across the world, leaves with more than just a full stomach.
We hope they leave with a sense of connection — to a time, a people, and a culture that values community, tradition, and heart.

As Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj once said, “Swarajya is my birthright and I shall have it.” Let us carry that same fearless spirit — to reclaim our cultural sovereignty, to honor our roots, and to build a future where our traditions don’t just survive, but thrive.
Vaarsa is not just my dream — it is our shared heritage. And this is just the beginning.Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji!
Courtesy : In Conversation with the Restaurateurs’ The Naikude’s family at VAARSA – Chav Pidhyan Pidhyanchi , along with few foodies who frequent the outlet at Lalbaug, Mumbai.
GD Goenka ‘School of Management Successfully Hosts 7th Int’l Conference

GD Goenka University’s School of Management successfully organised the 7th International Conference on Recent Advances in Technology, Innovation & Sustainability (ICON 2025) from March 27-28, 2025.
The two-day conference witnessed the convergence of distinguished academicians, industry experts, and researchers to discuss emerging trends and advancements in these critical domains.
The inaugural session was graced by eminent dignitaries, including Prof. (Dr.) Satyabhusan Dash, Professor of Marketing and Chairperson of The Centre for Marketing in Emerging Economies (CMEE) at IIM Lucknow; Mr. Ankur Verma, Associate Director at PwC; and Mr. Rohit Dubey, Vice President of Corporate Communications & Advocacy at Jio. Their insightful perspectives set the tone for an engaging and intellectually stimulating event.
ICON 2025 served as a dynamic platform for scholars and professionals to engage in meaningful dialogues on technological innovations, sustainable business practices, and cutting-edge research to shape the future of global industries. The event featured inspiring keynote speeches, thought-provoking panel discussions, and groundbreaking research paper presentations from globally acclaimed experts. The speakers highlighted the need for research and action to address the challenges such as climate change, economic instability, and social inequality and the need for a circular economy. Various examples of how technology and innovation can provide solutions to these challenges were also shared by the speakers.
“The resounding success of ICON 2025 is a testament to GD Goenka University’s School of Management’s commitment to fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration among thought leaders. The exchange of ideas and expertise will contribute significantly to interdisciplinary studies and innovation, paving the way for future advancements and societal transformation,” said Prof Dash.
Echoing this sentiment Prof Smitha Girija, Dean School of Management, GD Goenka University stated, “ICON 2025 has once again reinforced our university’s dedication to academic excellence and global engagement. By bringing together experts from diverse fields, we continue to foster an environment where innovation and sustainability drive meaningful change.”
As the conference progressed, the attendees gained comprehensive insights into evolving industry trends, explored innovative business strategies, and expanded their professional networks. Academicians and research scholars from both national and international universities presented their research under 10 tracks.
GD Goenka School of Management will continue to organise such pioneering events to create a conducive environment for intellectual growth and continuous learning for all.
Force Motors Launches Force iPulse- its Intelligent Platform

Force Motors Limited, a key automotive player and India’s largest van manufacturer has announced the launch of Force iPulse, a next-generation connected vehicle platform that introduces a new standard in operational intelligence and vehicle lifecycle management. Developed in collaboration with Intangles, a global pioneer in AI-powered predictive analytics, Force iPulse brings state-of-the-art artificial intelligence and proprietary hybrid analytics to the core of vehicle operations.
As a flagship offering under Project DigiForce, Force iPulse goes beyond a digital upgrade, representing a foundational shift in how vehicle performance, health, and operational behaviors are understood and managed. The platform continuously ingests and interprets high-resolution vehicular data to power predictive insights, enabling early detection of performance degradation and preemptive identification of component failures.
Unlike conventional monitoring solutions, Force iPulse does not just report anomalies; it understands their context. The system performs root-cause analysis across key subsystems, including engine, powertrain, electrical and thermal systems, allowing for proactive interventions that prevent escalation and unplanned downtime. Its ability to distinguish between surface-level symptoms and systemic issues empowers fleet operators to act precisely, not reactively.
“At Force Motors, we believe in value-driven innovation, and this launch is yet another step in our mission to deliver superior, intelligent mobility solutions. Force iPulse is more than just a technological solution—it is a business enabler for our customers. It brings in transparency, improves efficiency, and ensures safety across operations, thereby equipping our customers with complete control over their fleet operations. We are confident that this new initiative will be well appreciated by both our customers as well as our partners and help take us another step forward in delivering our promise of customer delight.” said Mr. Prasan Firodia, Managing Director of Force Motors.
Built on a secure, cloud-native architecture, the platform provides intuitive access to live and historical vehicle intelligence, with insights available across mobile and desktop environments. From driver behavior and fuel efficiency to system health and performance benchmarks, Force iPulse offers a unified operational view that helps fleet managers detect inefficiencies, enforce best practices, and optimize total cost of ownership.
To ensure operational continuity, Force Motors has established a dedicated Intelligence Command Center at its Pune headquarters. Staffed by a team of diagnostics experts and domain specialists, the center is responsible for remote vehicle monitoring, alert management, and expert-guided resolutions. This capability is further reinforced by a 24/7 support infrastructure, built to deliver timely assistance and issue resolution across India’s dynamic fleet landscape. Force iPulse is now available through Force Motors’ extensive dealership network of more than 300 touchpoints, with field deployment and support facilitated by both Force Motors and Intangles’ integrated service teams.
“Partnering with Force Motors is an opportunity to bring high-impact technology into the hands of operators who face real-world challenges every day.” said Anup Patil, CEO of Intangles. “Our goal is to complement Force Motors’ product strength with advanced diagnostics and predictive AI that enhance system-level visibility, improve maintenance planning, and enable more confident, data-backed decision-making across the vehicle lifecycle. We are excited to collaborate closely to serve this segment better and advance the next phase of connected mobility.”
Uniphore Announces the Acquisitions of Orby AI and Autonom8

DeepMind and Google alumni to join Uniphore, bringing advanced Large Action Models, neuro-symbolic agents, and enterprise-grade agent orchestration to the market.
Uniphore, the Business AI company, today announced it has acquired Orby AI, Inc. and intends to acquire Autonom8, Inc., two AI-native companies that will enhance the capabilities of Uniphore’s Business AI Cloud. Both teams bring top AI research and engineering talent from DeepMind and Google, adding unmatched expertise and proven innovation to push the boundaries of Business AI.
This move cements Uniphore’s position at the forefront of the AI talent race, as companies vie for experts capable of transforming AI for business from concept into measurable outcomes. Orby brings deep research expertise, Large Action Models, neuro-symbolic reasoning and agentic process discovery. Autonom8 will complement this with deep roots in driving business adoption of multi-agentic workflows, translating innovation into real-world impact.
“The world’s largest companies trust Uniphore to deliver innovation at the speed of AI,” said Umesh Sachdev, CEO and Co-founder of Uniphore. “Our customers are betting their business models on Al-enabled transformation, with Business Al Cloud at the core. With the addition of Orby and Autonom8, Uniphore will welcome world-cl-ass research and engineering talent and breakthrough AI capabilities that elevate our ability to orchestrate complex workflows.
We’re ready to rapidly integrate these teams into Uniphore and deliver new innovations to our customers without delay.” Why This Matters Enterprises have been eager to deploy AI agents that go beyond chat and simple predictions but building them has been difficult and slow. Orby and Autonom8 have solved key challenges in this space by creating action models that learn and optimize business processes to leap over traditional Generative AI tools and autonomous processes.
Uniphore’s Business AI Cloud unlocks the agentic enterprise with a complete, composable AI stack spanning agents, models, knowledge, and data. The integration of Orby and Autonom8 technology will accelerate the automation of complex enterprise workflows that demand reasoning, judgment, and precision
Aditya Shriram elected as President & Prashant Mahale elected as Vice President of AMAI

Aditya A. Shriram, Deputy Managing Director, DCM Shriram Ltd. has been elected as the new President of Alkali Manufacturers Association of India (AMAI), the august body of Rs.36,000 crore Alkali and Chloro-Vinyl industry in the country. Prashant J. Mahale, Sr. Executive Vice President, Reliance Industries Ltd. has taken over as the new Vice President at the 48th Annual General Meeting of AMAI held at New Delhi.
An Industrial Engineer from Cornell University and an MBA from London Business School, Aditya has worked in various businesses and functions within the group. He is a strong advocate of safe and sustainable development, and his priority is growth with ethics and adoption of highest standards of ESG in business.
Prashant Mahale is a seasoned professional with over 35 years of leadership experience across Petroleum Downstream, Petrochemicals, Chlor-Alkali, Specialty/ Bulk chemicals, and Pulp & Paper industries. At Reliance, he has successfully led businesses with P&L responsibility, managed Feedstock operations, and spearheaded Strategic Procurement and Commercial Contracts. A Chemical Engineer, Prashant further honed his leadership through executive programs at ISB Hyderabad, Darden School of Business (University of Virginia), and XLRI Jamshedpur.
AMAI represents producers of caustic soda, chlorine, soda ash, PVC, CPVC and a few other related products which are an important segment of the chemical industry, providing inputs which find wide spread usage in a diverse range of industrial and consumer goods. The industry has espoused the spirit of Make in India and has been meeting most of the country’s needs for a long time against all odds including the onslaught of cheap imports. Major end use areas for caustic soda are in Aluminium processing, Textiles, Inorganic and Organic chemicals, soaps & detergents and pulp & paper and for soda ash in glass, soaps & detergents, silicate production, etc. Major uses of chlorine are to produce PVC, CPW, Chloromethanes, water/effluent disinfection besides usage in inorganic & organic chemicals.
AMAI is doing pioneering work in imparting chemical safety training, particularly focused on chlorine, sodium hypochlorite, bleaching solution/powder, etc. the major chemicals used extensively for disinfection and are hazardous to handle.
GJEPC to sign MoU with De Beers for promotion of diamonds through Retail Alliance in India

Hon’ble Minister of Skill Development, Employment, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Govt. of Maharashtra, inaugurated the 17th edition India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) Signature organised by India’s apex trade body, Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).
The inauguration ceremony was also graced by the presence of several esteemed dignitaries, including Guest of Honour Shri Saurabh Gadgil, Managing Director and CEO, PNG Jewellers Ltd.; Shri Umesh Pandey, Thai Trade Representative; Shri Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC; and Shri Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC.
Organized by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), IIJS Signature 2025 has grown exponentially, featuring over 1,500 exhibitors across 3,000 stalls, covering 1.25 lakh square meters of exhibition space across two venues—JWCC and Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC). The show is set to welcome 25,000+ trade visitors, including retailers from 800+ Indian cities and over 1,000 international visitors from 60+ countries.
Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha, said,“Maharashtra offers the best business and professional atmosphere. Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji, our government is committed to supporting industries like yours. Together, we can realize the dreams of Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat. GJEPC and the Maharashtra Govt. must collaborate on skill development and certifications to strengthen the future workforce and elevate the diamond and jewellery sector to greater heights,”
Shri Umesh Pandey, Thai Trade Representative, lauded India’s position in the global jewellery market: “Thailand and India share deep roots in the gemstone and jewellery industry. I’m honoured to represent my nation, extending an open invitation for Indian businesses to invest and flourish in Thailand.”
Shri Saurabh Gadgil, MD & CEO, PNG Jewellers, said, “From being the epitome of networking to showcasing talent from across the globe, IIJS represents our journey towards becoming the world’s largest jewellery show. With support from the government and a move towards greater organisation, we’re poised to hit $100 billion domestic market size by next year.”
Shri Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, highlighted the Council’s commitment to driving growth: “By integrating skill development with cutting-edge technology, we are not only transforming the Indian gem and jewellery industry but also fostering innovation, sustainability, and trust. Our commitment to nurturing talent, advancing infrastructure, and promoting transparency ensures that India remains a global leader in this dynamic sector.”
Taking about GJEPC’s international initiatives, Vipul Shah said, “GJEPC will be organizing its inaugural exhibition in Saudi Arabia, set to take place in the vibrant city of Jeddah from 11th to 13th September 2025. This landmark event aims to serve as a gateway for strengthening bilateral trade between India and the GCC region, unlocking unparalleled opportunities for collaboration and growth.”
Shri Vipul Shah, announced two landmark initiatives during the inauguration. Highlighting India’s leadership as the largest manufacturer of diamonds, he revealed that GJEPC has invested ₹150 crores in the global generic promotion of diamonds till date. To strengthen this effort, GJEPC has partnered with De Beers for promotion of diamonds through Retail Alliance in India, with a formal MoU to be signed at a special event on January 7th. Additionally, in a move to boost gem and jewellery exports via e-commerce, GJEPC will be signing an MoU with DHL Express, the global leader in international express services, to facilitate the efficient shipping of India-crafted jewellery worldwide.
Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC said, “As the first show of the calendar year, IIJS Signature holds great importance for our industry. It sets the tone, reflects the market sentiment, and provides valuable insights into what we can expect in the months ahead.”
Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC said, “The IIJS journey is a testament to the collective vision, innovation, and excellence of the Indian gem and jewellery industry. As we proudly celebrate being the world’s second-largest gem and jewellery show, IIJS is more than just an event—it’s a platform for creativity, sustainability, and unity. With groundbreaking initiatives, a dual-venue format, and a commitment to redefining world-class standards, IIJS continues to elevate our industry on the global stage, paving the way for an even brighter future.”
The IIJS edition deliver an unparalleled experience with its innovative features and thoughtful initiatives. The Brilliant Bharat Concept, featuring the Brahmi Script theme for Prime member can enjoy exclusive access to the IIJS Prime Plus Lounge, streamlined digital entry with facial recognition, and user-friendly online visitor registration, including the Value Visitor Pack for the last two days of the show. Complementary international visitor registration, detailed updates via the IIJS app, and high-quality accommodations nearby further enhance the event. With five exhibition halls at BEC and a full pavilion hall at JWCC, Innov8 Talks at both venues, and the IIJS Celebration Networking Eve on January 4th, the show is a perfect blend of business, innovation, and networking opportunities.
Piaggio Vehicles launches the all-new Apé E-City Ultra and the Apé E-City FX Maxx

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Diego Graffi, Chairman & MD, Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd., said,
“India is undergoing a major shift towards electric mobility, and three-wheelers are leading this transformation on the ground. We believe EVs are an opportunity to reshape urban transport and improve livelihoods. New Apé E-City Ultra and Apé E-City FX Maxx are being built with these realities in mind. They deliver what the Indian customer needs: best in cl-ass range, low battery degradation, strong performance, and minimal operating costs. These vehicles are enablers of economic mobility. As the Pioneers of EVs in the three-wheeler space, Piaggio is proud to support India’s net-zero vision with smart, future-ready solutions that can scale across cities and small towns alike. Our focus is not only on innovation but also on contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable future.”
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Amit Sagar, Executive Vice President CV Domestic Business and Retail Finance, Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd., said, “The electric passenger three-wheeler segment is evolving quickly, with customers increasingly seeking vehicles that offer longer range, reliable battery life, and lower running costs. The Apé E-City Ultra and the Apé E-City FX Maxx have been developed keeping these needs at the centre. With a certified range up to 236 km, strong power delivery, and industry-best battery technology with minimal degradation, these vehicles are built for daily use in demanding city conditions. The vehicles also come with superior warranty of 5 years/2,25,000 km, providing added assurance. We are confident that these products will support the user’s livelihood due to its low charging costs, reduced maintenance, and higher uptime, making them a smart choice for profitable and sustainable mobility.”
The new Apé E-City Ultra is designed for high efficiency with a host of powerful features:
- Best-in-cl-ass certified range of 236 km
- Peak power of 9.55 kW with fast pickup and strong torque of 45 Nm
- Top speed of 55 kmph, enabling quicker trips and higher turnaround efficiency
- 28% gradeability, ideal for flyovers and hilly roads
- Climb Assist Mode for instant power when needed
- 10.2 kWh LFP battery with 3 kW charger for quick charging and lower downtime
- Category leading 5-year / 2,25,000 km warranty
- Digital speedometer showing battery level (SOC), range (DTE), speed, and system alerts
- Smart 4G Telematics with live tracking, geo-fencing, and Remote immobilization.
- Robust build quality with a strong metal body
The Apé E-City FX Maxx, Piaggio’s trusted electric model, now comes with enhanced power and range:
- Certified range of 174 km per charge
- Peak motor power at 7.4 kW
- Gradeability of 19%, with a torque output of 30 Nm
- 8.0 kWh battery delivering consistent energy output over time
- Prismatic cell technology ensuring minimal battery imbalance and extended life
- Smart energy monitoring for controlled battery degradation
The Apé E-City FX Maxx is launched at a starting price of ₹3,30,000/- and the Apé E-City Ultraat ₹3,88,000/- Ex Showroom, India. Both models will be available at Piaggio dealerships across India.
Wilhelmsen and MPC Capital acquire Hamburg-based ship manager Zeaborn

Wilhelmsen Ship Management (“Wilhelmsen”), a provider of third-party ship management services headquartered in Singapore, and Hamburg-based asset manager MPC Capital have agreed to acquire 100 % of the company Zeaborn Ship Management (“Zeaborn”). The acquisition is the consistent next milestone in the partnership between Wilhelmsen and MPC Capital and their ship management joint venture Wilhelmsen Ahrenkiel Ship Management (“Wilhelmsen Ahrenkiel”) and tanker specialist Barber Ship Management (“Barber”).
Zeaborn manages a fleet of around 100 vessels, comprising of container ships and bulkers as well as tankers and multi-purpose vessels, which are managed from offices in Hamburg, Limassol, Singapore and Manila.
Creating a leading competence center for ship management
With the full integration of Zeaborn into the joint technical management activities of Wilhelmsen and MPC Capital, the partners create a leading competence center for third-party ship management in Hamburg. After the integration of Zeaborn, the combined activities will continue to operate under the brand names of Wilhelmsen Ahrenkiel and Barber, respectively.
The joint activities will be co-headed by Managing Directors Dr. Michael Silies and Michael Brandhoff. Michael Silies has been with MPC Capital since 2003 and has headed Wilhelmsen Ahrenkiel since 2020. Michael Brandhoff has been Managing Director of Zeaborn since 2021.
Wilhelmsen and MPC Capital actively drive market consolidatio
The expanded joint ship management activities of Wilhelmsen and MPC Capital will continue to be managed from Hamburg with a total fleet of more than 150 vessels in technical management. Wilhelmsen and MPC Capital, both established groups with strong family ties, are thus actively driving market consolidation and advancing Hamburg’s position as a major ship management hub.
Carl Schou, CEO and President of Wilhelmsen Ship Management, says: “We are excited to expand our cooperation with MPC Capital, based on an already successful partnership. The acquisition of Zeaborn is our strategic move to expand and strengthen our market presence in the ship management arena. The transaction will increase our vessels in management to a size that we are confident that we can continue to deliver the best ship management services to our existing and future customers. We are committed to ensuring a successful integration that prioritizes our customer’s interest. “
Ulf Holländer, CEO of MPC Capital, says: “As a Hamburg-based company with an outstanding track record in shipping activities we feel many overlaps in tradition and values with the Wilhelmsen group as our partner. As such, we are excited to grow our ship management platform. With the integration of Zeaborn’s complementary client base and services we further strengthen our market position in the ship management business. Combining our expertise with that of Zeaborn will allow us to deliver an outstanding service offering.”
The closing of the transaction is expected for Q1 2024 and is subject to approval by the competent antitrust authorities.